On Tuesday, August 11, 2009, Senator Kenneth Donnelly (D-Arlington) underwent surgery for prostate cancer. He is at home recuperating and expects to make a full recovery.

 

“I am looking forward to the end of the August recess and getting back to the important work ahead of us in the Senate,” said Senator Donnelly. “My surgery was successful and my prognosis is excellent.”

 

Prostate cancer is the most common non-skin cancer in the United States, affecting one in six men. If detected early, as in Senator Donnelly’s case, nearly 100% of all cases are cured after five years. 

 

“This was detected as part of my yearly checkup. This is just another example of how important yearly checkups are especially this screening for men over 50. Finding and treating this disease early is key to a successful outcome.”                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                             

 

Senate President Therese Murray (D-Plymouth) said she is looking forward to seeing Senator Donnelly when formal sessions resume in September.

 

“I am pleased to hear that Senator Donnelly’s surgery was successful and wish him a speedy recovery.   Senator Donnelly is the second Senator this year who has benefitted from an early detection because of a routine check-up, proving that preventative care is essential to our health and well-being,” said Senate President Therese Murray.  “I am confident that Senator Donnelly will be back on Beacon Hill advocating for the Fourth Middlesex District in no time.”

 

Senator Donnelly expects to resume his full time schedule by early September.